Director Guillermo del Toro says he wanted Victor Frankenstein to have the 'arrogance' of tech bros

In a recent interview on NPR's "Fresh Air," acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro revealed that his adaptation of "Frankenstein" draws inspiration from the contemporary tech landscape, particularly the culture surrounding Silicon Valley. Del Toro expressed his intention for the character of Victor Frankenstein to embody traits reminiscent of today's tech entrepreneurs, often referred to as 'tech bros.' "I wanted Victor's arrogance to reflect some aspects of these tech figures," del Toro explained. He highlighted the character's reckless ambition, stating, "He's somewhat oblivious, creating life without contemplating the repercussions. We really need to pause and think about the direction we're heading in." The director's remarks come against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving AI industry, which has seen significant advancements in recent years. Startups like OpenAI have democratized access to artificial intelligence with innovations such as ChatGPT, compelling established tech giants like Google and Microsoft to adapt swiftly. According to a report by the UN Trade and Development, the AI market is projected to soar to $4.8 trillion by 2033. However, this excitement is tempered by concerns regarding AI's implications for jobs, privacy, and societal connections. Prominent figures, including Yann LeCun, Meta's Chief AI Scientist, have called for stringent safety measures as the technology continues to expand. Del Toro, however, remains staunchly opposed to integrating AI into his creative process. "Generative AI is something I have no interest in, nor will I ever have interest in," he asserted emphatically. "At 61, I hope to maintain this stance until my last day. When asked about my views on AI, I responded succinctly: 'I'd rather die.'" His latest film, "Frankenstein," premiered in select theaters on October 17 and is set to debut on Netflix on November 7, providing audiences with a fresh take on the classic tale while sparking discussions about the ethical implications of modern technology.